A Holter monitor is a machine that continuously records the heart's rhythms. The monitor is worn for 24 hours during normal activity.

Prep: There is no prep for this test; however, please refrain from lotions the day of testing as this may cause the electrodes to not adhere to your chest. Also, inform the technician if you are allergic to any tape or other adhesives

How the Test is Performed :Electrodes (small conducting patches) are stuck onto your chest. These are attached by wires to a small recording monitor. You carry the Holter monitor in a pouch worn around your neck or clipped to your waist. The monitor runs on batteries.

While you wear the monitor, it records your heart's electrical activity.

After 24 hours, the monitor will turn itself off. You will return the monitor to your doctor's office.

The doctor will evaluate the recordings for any abnormal heart rhythms.

Continue your normal activities while wearing the monitor. You may be asked to exercise while being monitored if your symptoms have occurred in the past while you were exercising.

How the Test will Feel:This is a painless test. However, some people may need to have their chest shaved so the electrodes can stick.You must keep the monitor close to your body. This may make it hard for you to sleep.

Holter monitoring is used to determine how the heart responds to normal activity. The monitor may also be used:

Definition: The Event Monitor is a portable monitor used to record your heart rhythm as you go about your daily activities. This type of monitor can detect abnormal heart rhythms which could occur infrequently making them difficult to capture on a regular, 24 hour monitor.

Prep: Avoid any creams, lotions, powders or sprays on your chest area prior to application of the electrodes.

What to expect: The Event Monitor will be mailed to your home with specific instructions. The length of the monitoring period is usually 14 to 30 days. You will be asked to wear the monitor as you go about your daily activities and to press the “event button” when symptoms occur. You will be allowed to remove the monitor to bathe/shower. Your physician will receive updates of your recorded activities via the event monitor company. The event monitor company will be available to you 24 hours a day to assist you with any concerns or questions concerning the equipment or the marking of your symptoms.